Governor Healey signed an Executive Order and released ReiMAgine Aging 2030: The Massachusetts Plan, which outlines improved ways for Massachusetts agencies to serve older adults, following feedback gathered from across the state. In recognition of Older Americans Month, Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and Aging & Independence Secretary Robin Lipson visited the Plymouth Center for Active Living to discuss how communities across the state can implement the new state plan.
The Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative joined state officials, organizational partners and communities for the announcement.
ReiMAgine Aging 2030: The Massachusetts Plan is a bold, community-driven roadmap to make our state a better place to grow up and grow older. With nearly 1 in 4 residents over the age of 60, this plan outlines six key goals to ensure all older adults can thrive through enhanced health, economic security, community engagement, and livable environments. These goals can help inform or guide an age- and dementia friendly initiative for a city, town or region.
- Economic Opportunity & Security: Every older individual across Massachusetts can meet their basic financial needs
- People & Communities: Older adults and families are empowered decision makers with meaningful connections to their communities
- Places & Spaces: Natural and built environments enhance older adults’ mobility and livability
- Health & Wellness: Older adults have optimal health for a high quality of life
- Aging in All Policies: All local, regional, and statewide policies consider the implications for older adults
- Information, Communication & Framing: Information is broadly accessible and reframes aging to value older adults
The plan has been updated from the previous 2019 version to reflect the most current priorities, needs, and aspirations of Massachusetts communities. This refreshed plan was developed with significant community and stakeholder input. Throughout 2024, the state hosted a series of community listening sessions to understand our residents’ priorities for the future. The plan, which includes an in-depth analysis of the state’s aging population, identifies challenges older residents face when aging in Massachusetts. Additionally, the plan outlines strategies and specific actions that state agencies, local communities, community-based organizations, and the private sector can implement to ensure Massachusetts continues to be a great place for everyone to grow old.
If you would like to be a champion of the ReiMAgine Aging 2030: The Massachusetts Plan, or if you have any input on the plan, please reach out at Aging.Conversation@mass.gov. You’re also invited to spread the word in your community by using the below toolkit.
https://www.mass.gov/tool-kit/reimagine-aging-2030-the-massachusetts-plan-toolkit
The Governor’s Executive Order outlines aims to “further embed age-friendly policies and practices into the work of Executive Offices.” The order states that “This work is foundational to creating an age-friendly state, which will make our communities more welcoming and livable for older residents and people of all ages. Involvement of and advice from diverse stakeholders, cities and towns, and other community partners is critical to our success and will be sought throughout this process.”